US President Donald Trump said the United States could declare what he described as a “total victory” over Iran within the next two weeks, while expressing confidence in ongoing negotiations between Washington and Tehran.
Get breaking news anytime, anywhere. Download the TOI app now!
Speaking during a tele-rally for South Carolina Senator Lindsey Graham ahead of Tuesday’s primary, Trump said Iranian officials were seeking a “very good deal” and were prepared to make significant concessions.
“We’re negotiating now, and they want to make a very good deal. They’re willing to give us everything, they’re willing to give us no nuclear weapon,” Trump said.
“I think we are winning that battle, but you’re really going to win it over the next two weeks when we declare total victory, it’ll be a total victory, it’ll happen very soon, and oil prices will come tumbling down,” Trump said.
Trump did not provide details on what form such a “victory” would take. He also predicted that oil prices would fall sharply once the United States achieved what he called a successful outcome in the negotiations.
The remarks come as the administration continues discussions with Iran over its nuclear programme. Trump has previously made references to a two-week timeline in relation to developments involving Iran. A ceasefire announced on April 7 was initially expected to last two weeks while the two sides worked towards a broader agreement.
In an interview on Meet the Press, Trump was asked why Iran had not yet agreed to a deal if it was as eager for an agreement as he had repeatedly suggested.
“Because they’re strong. They’re proud. There are things they never thought they’d be doing that they’re going to have to do. They’ve got no choice. And it takes a little while,” he said.
